Chai-spiced Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen. But these aren’t just any cinnamon rolls – they’re infused with the deep, aromatic spices of chai, taking the classic treat to a whole new level.

I first created this recipe on a chilly autumn morning, craving something cozier than the usual cinnamon rolls. A dash of cardamom here, a sprinkle of ginger there, and soon, I had a batch of the most irresistible, chai-spiced cinnamon rolls I’d ever tasted. Now, they’re a must-have in my household, especially during the cooler months.

Why You’ll Love These Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite sweet indulgence. These chai-spiced cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort food, with a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.

First, the spice blend adds an incredible depth of flavor. Classic cinnamon rolls are delicious on their own, but the addition of cardamom, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg takes them to a whole new level of warmth and complexity.

Second, the dough is soft, fluffy, and incredibly easy to work with. You don’t need to be a master baker to make these rolls – just follow the simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of pillowy, golden-brown perfection in no time.

Plus, they’re perfect for make-ahead baking. Prepare them the night before, let them rise slowly in the fridge, and pop them in the oven the next morning for a stress-free breakfast treat.

And of course, the chai-spiced glaze ties everything together. With a touch of vanilla and a hint of spice, it perfectly complements the rich, buttery rolls.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these chai-spiced cinnamon rolls comes from a few key ingredients that work together to create an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

Flour forms the foundation of the dough. I recommend using all-purpose flour for a soft, tender texture, but you can also experiment with bread flour for a slightly chewier result.

Yeast is essential for achieving that perfect, fluffy rise. I prefer instant yeast because it doesn’t require proofing, but active dry yeast will work too – just be sure to dissolve it in warm milk before using.

Chai Spice Blend is what makes these rolls stand out. A mix of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of black pepper gives them a warm, aromatic depth. You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.

Butter and Brown Sugar create the signature gooey filling. The richness of butter combined with the caramel-like sweetness of brown sugar ensures every bite is decadent and flavorful.

Milk and Heavy Cream add moisture and tenderness to the dough and filling. Whole milk works best, but you can substitute with plant-based milk if needed.

How To Make These Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Rolls

Making these chai-spiced cinnamon rolls is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, spiced perfection in no time.

Start by preparing the dough. Warm the milk and butter together until just melted, then mix with sugar and yeast. Let it sit until foamy – this ensures the yeast is active and ready to create a beautifully risen dough. Add flour, spices, and eggs, then knead until you have a smooth, elastic dough. Cover and let it rise until doubled in size.

While the dough rises, prepare the filling. Mix softened butter with brown sugar and the chai spice blend. This rich, spiced mixture will create the signature swirl inside each roll.

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the chai-spiced filling evenly over the dough, then roll it up tightly into a log. Slice into even pieces and arrange them in a greased baking dish.

Let the rolls rise again until puffy, then bake until golden brown and fragrant. The kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly!

While the rolls are baking, whisk together the glaze. A simple mix of powdered sugar, vanilla, chai spices, and a splash of milk creates a perfectly drizzly topping.

Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls, letting it seep into every delicious swirl. Then, grab a fork and dive in!

Storage Options

These chai-spiced cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they store beautifully for later enjoyment. If you have leftovers, simply cover them tightly and store at room temperature for up to two days.

For longer storage, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days. When ready to eat, warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to restore their soft, gooey texture.

To freeze, wrap the rolls individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these chai-spiced cinnamon rolls is how adaptable they are! Here are a few ways to customize the recipe to suit your preferences.

If you’re dairy-free, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. The texture will remain soft and fluffy, with a subtle hint of coconut.

For an extra indulgent twist, add a layer of finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the filling. They’ll add a delightful crunch and enhance the warmth of the spices.

Want to make them even more chai-forward? Steep a chai tea bag in the warm milk before mixing it into the dough for an extra infusion of flavor.

If you’re short on time, try making these rolls in a muffin tin instead of a baking dish. They’ll bake up quicker and give you perfectly portioned, individual cinnamon rolls.

No matter how you make them, these chai-spiced cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to become a new favorite. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and finding the perfect version for you!

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